Pregnant Women Must Plan For Their Babies' Delivery: Issues Regarding The Vacuum-Assisted Approach

A vacuum-assisted delivery, also known as vacuum extraction, has become increasingly more of a general occurrence in the United States.

This vaginal technique offers many advantages and can reduce the need for cesarean section (C-Section) delivery rates. But it is does poses risks if not properly done, and it can cause serious head injuries and brain damage. Subsequently, many babies born using that technique have suffered traumatic brain injuries from improper or prolonged use of the vacuum device.

In May 1998, the Federal Drug Administration issued a public health advisory cautioning doctors to exercise extreme caution when employing vacuum extraction devices. This advisory was issued following the twelve infant deaths and nine head injuries reported in the previous four years after vacuum extraction was utilized.

Expecting mothers should discuss with their doctors the issue of how their babies will be born. Vacuum extraction should be considered only as an option when the fetus is in any kind of distress. If the mother has inadequate contractions, maternal fatigue, or poor pushing effort is displayed, then vacuum extraction may be considered. But make sure that your doctor consults you regarding this issue before you enter a hospital for delivery.

If a mother chooses to allow vacuum extraction, she should be aware of potential problems. Difficulties have occurred when the suction cup utilized in the procedure dislodges, or the procedure lasts longer than twenty minutes.

Prospective parents should learn and educate themselves about the basic delivery techniques. It is important to be aware of the potential difficulties associated with giving birth and the various options that doctors have in those emergency situations.

While no one can predict whether a woman will experience a difficult labor and require assistance during a delivery, good communication with the physician before labor and throughout the delivery will ensure that mothers and fathers are allowed to make confident, safe choices for a more positive outcome.

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